We all look forwarding to traveling to big destinations, especially if it is for a vacation or some sort of relaxation. However, it is important to be aware of the travel scams that are floating around out there. It seems several of the big cities in America all have there own unique travel scams going.
It is important to be aware of these travel scams because they could end up costing you a lot of money and heartache if you don’t know what to look out for.
Check out some of the popular travel scams that are currently running in some of the big US cities below. Being mindful of these will allow you to enjoy your time in these cities without having to fear that you are getting ripped off.
Big City Travel Scams
Orlando
A popular scam in Orlando, especially Disney World, happens to involve one of our favorite foods… pizza! Here is how it works:
Guests at Disney World hotels have been finding pizza menus under their hotel room doors. However, when they call to order a pizza they are actually giving their personal information to scam artists who are taking it and running. No pizza is ever delivered and your personal credit information is now in the hands of the scammers.
Las Vegas
Yes, we want to gamble, but not with our luggage. Las Vegas cabbies are already sketchy people. However, a popular travel scam in Vegas involves a cabbie that insists on unloading your bags at your hotel or the airport.
This is where it gets dicey… The cabbie says he is in a hurry or can’t take you after all and quickly unloads your bags. However, it is only after the fact that you will probably realize that one of your bags is missing. The cabbie has it. Do all the unloading yourself.
New York
If you are going to New York you need to be prepared for pushy people and a lot of stuff going on around you at once. This point is really driven home in Times Square. A famous travel scam that takes pace in New York is called the “CD Bullies” scam. Here is how it works.
A guy on the corner yells out, “Check out my music!” and hands you what you think is a free copy of his CD. He’s so nice, he’ll even offer to autograph it. However, once the disc is in your hands, the aspiring rapper–suddenly surrounded by friends–refuses to take it back. You need to pay $10 or so to stop them from menacing you. This can get confusing and a little scary but don’t worry.
There are thousands of people in Times Square so don’t panic. Simply put the CD on the ground a walk away.
Traveling is on the docket for many this summer. Be aware of the travel scams that are taking place in these major US cities and you will insure yourself a scam free vacation.